Joint compound is ideal for adding texture to walls.
Adding texture to a wall is a fairly inexpensive method of adding both polish and visual interest to a space. Joint compound, the material that is used to seal seams in drywall, is an ideal way to create several types of texture. The amount of work required to create a wall texture varies depending on how heavy a texture is desired. Depending on the application process, joint compound creates a light, medium or heavy texture. Does this Spark an idea?
Smoothing Texture
Prior to applying any new texture, existing texture must be smoothed. Though smoothing requires more work and time, it makes applying a new texture significantly easier and creates a better finished product. This process requires layering enough joint compound to completely cover the texture, leaving behind a smooth surface. Minor imperfections such as cracks and dents are covered by this additional layer, making the new texture more stable and less likely to crack or chip off. Once it has dried, the joint compound can be textured, painted or covered in wallpaper.
Orange Peel
An orange peel finish gives a finished product with a look similar to the outside of an orange. Depending on personal preference, the finish is light, medium or heavy. The joint compound is applied using a hopper gun, an arrangement made up of a nozzle, trigger, hopper and air compressor. This setup requires a texturing mix with a thin consistency to avoid clogs in the gun and is applied using a wide, sweeping motion. The amount of pressure applied to the trigger alters the heaviness of the texture.
Knockdown
A knockdown texture is one with a finished product that closely resembles stucco. It is one of the best textures for covering wall imperfections, cracks and dings. The application process uses a setup similar to the one used for an orange peel texture but requires a more watered-down joint compound. As this watery mixture dries, it forms drips that are then knocked down by a putty knife. This process creates the characteristic peaks and valleys of stucco.
Plaster
Traditional plastering is generally time-consuming and has a high cost. When done incorrectly, it has a tendency to crack, chip and flake. An alternative, easier-to-maintain option is a plaster-looking texture done with joint compound. It is an ideal option in modern homes if you are looking for a Tuscan or Mediterranean ambience. The process requires layering coats of joint compound with a trowel.
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